There are currently over 4.9 million people with diabetes in the UK. Type 2 diabetes makes up 90 percent of these cases, according to the charity Diabetes UK. Over 13.6 million people are also now at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the UK. For this reason, it is becoming increasingly important to know the symptoms of type 2. Dr Sarah Jarvis says that there are three common symptoms to look out for.
The reason why you make a lot of urine and become thirsty is because your blood sugar (glucose) has risen.
The reason why it will have risen, according to Dr Jarvis, is because the insulin in your body is not doing its job.
When your glucose levels are too high the excess sugar is released via urine.
As urination frequency increases, more fluids are lost from the body, resulting in dehydration and increased thirst.
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The reason why you may have a later diagnosis is because type 2 diabetes symptoms develop over time and so the symptoms may be quite ‘vague’ at first.
Subsequently, you become used to becoming thirsty and tired so you may not recognise that you’re ill.
Other symptoms of type 2 diabetes include blurred vision and frequent infections e.g., thrush.
Some people with type 2 diabetes do not have any symptoms as their glucose levels have not reached the point where they will start to affect the body.
It is sadly possible to have complications from type 2 diabetes.
In the long term these include:
• Hardening of the arteries
• Kidney damage
• Eye problems
• Nerve damage
• Foot problems
• Impotence
If you have any doubts at all always make sure to contact your GP.